The lineup for the 2023 edition of Strictly Come Dancing – Series 21 – is revealed.
The date of the first episode is unconfirmed, but it will be sometime in the fall until December.
The BBC is splitting the cast announcements for the latest iteration of their iconic show across a range of their other TV and radio coverage.
So who’s in contention for this year’s championship? And who could surprise us?
Find out who has been confirmed as a cast member for Strictly Come Dancing 2023 below.
Big reveal: Angela Rippon (left) and Amanda Abbington (right) were announced as members of Strictly Come Dancing 2023 on the same episode of The One Show
Strong background: Layton Williams’ West End background should make him an eye-catcher in Series 21
Layton Williams
Stage and screen actor Layton Williams was announced as a new cast member for Strictly on The One Show on August 4th.
The 28-year-old, from Bury, is best known on stage for his title roles in West End productions ‘Billy Elliot’ and ‘Everybody’s Talking About Jamie’ and on screen for his roles in ‘Bad Education’ and ‘The Cleaner “.
Layton also runs his own performing arts company – Pros From The Shows – which, combined with his personal background as a performer, should make him one of the series favourites.
Ahead of the show, he said he was “absolutely thrilled to confirm that I will be taking part in the most famous dance competition in the UK!”
“It’s time to take it to the ballroom.” I really enjoy learning new skills from the best. Bring on the sequins… ALL the sequins!’
Amanda Abbington
Excited: Amanda Abbington said she was “thrilled” that she had been asked to do the iconic BBC show
Before Layton appeared on The One Show, Amanda Abbington was introduced by Alex Jones and Roman Kemp.
The Sherlock star has been in a string of TV hits, with the 49-year-old also starring in ‘Mr. Selfridge” and “Doc Martin” performed.
Like her co-star Layton, Amanda recently took the stage on Steven Moffat’s West End show The Unfriend.
She said she was “thrilled to be asked to do Strictly.”
“Actually, I’m very shy and self-confident, so this is a great opportunity for me to overcome those things!”
“Plus I can learn to dance, which I’m incredibly excited about.” I’m also really looking forward to training, I’m quite competitive as my family and friends will tell you. I can’t wait to get started!’
Angela Rippon CBE
Keep dancing: Angela Rippon CBE presented Strictly’s predecessor Come Dancing and hosted and competed on Dancing On Ice
The last cast member to be announced at the initial reveal of The One Show was Angela Rippon CBE.
The former news anchor will become the oldest contestant ever at 78.
An advantage could be that she appeared on Dancing On Ice back in 2011.
However, she only lasted one episode, so you might take that as a sign that she won’t be on Strictly for the long haul.
She was also the host of Come Dancing, the predecessor of her new project.
Angela said: “I’ve been a fan of Strictly since day one and as a former Come Dancing host, this is going to be quite an adventure for me.”
“A scary thing considering I’ll be 79 soon. But I’m really looking forward to the challenge and maybe learning to dance Argentine tango!!”
Krishnan Guru-Murthy
Doubtful: While delighted to be in the line-up, Krishnan Guru-Murthy admitted he is concerned his ‘general decrepitude’ is holding him back
Channel 4’s Krishnan Guru-Murthy was revealed the day after the first trio on Claudia Winkleman’s Saturday show on BBC Radio 2.
The newsreader has been with Channel 4 News since 1998, making him the channel’s longest-serving current presenter.
He is the latest in a long list of news anchors to join the show, following Susanna Reid, Dan Walker and Kate Silverton in recent years.
The presenter downplayed his chances, saying: “I’m surprised, delighted and a little confused to be taking part in Strictly’s ‘You only live once!’ and I can’t wait to start learning to dance, but I’m a little worried about my general weakness.”
Eddie Kadie
Big year: In addition to competing for the Strictly Glitter Ball, Eddie Kadi is also a nominee for the Royal Television Society Best Breakthrough Award and Best Breakthrough Presenter at this year’s Edinburgh TV Awards
BBC Radio 1Xtra’s Eddie Kadi announced his participation in this year’s series on his own radio show on 6 August.
As well as hosting the official UK Afrobeats Chart Show, Eddie is known as an actor and stand-up comedian.
To coincide with the fight for the famous Glitterball trophy, Eddie was also nominated for this year’s Royal Television Society Best Breakthrough Award and Best Breakthrough Presenter at the Edinburgh TV Awards at the end of August.
He said: “Anyone who knows me understands that music and dance are so important and central to me.”
“I’m so incredibly proud and honored that Strictly and the BBC have asked me to join the 2023 team. I promise you I’ll do everything I can.”
Angela Scanlon
So many questions: TV presenter Angela Scanlon asked, “Will they make me tan?” How itchy are sequins?! Are there also flesh-colored sports bras?
Angela Scanlon was announced as the sixth new candidate on BBC Radio 2’s breakfast program on August 7th.
The 39-year-old Irish TV presenter hosted programs on RTE before moving to England to work on BBC programmes.
Since 2015 she has been presenting “The One Show”, “Robot Wars” and “Your Home Made Perfect”.
She has expressed her excitement about the role, asking, “Will they tan me?” How itchy are sequins?! Are there also flesh-colored sports bras? Well – there’s only one way to find out, isn’t there!?’
Zara McDermott
Firstly, Zara McDermott will be the first person to ever bridge the gap between Love Island and Strictly Come Dancing
Zara Mcdermott was the seventh contestant confirmed for Strictly Come Dancing 2023.
But she’s the first person to ever bridge the divide between Love Island and Strictly Come Dancing.
Zara took part in the fourth season of the ITV reality TV hit in 2018 but only survived one re-release.
She has since moved on to more serious programmes, including working with the BBC on Zara McDermott: Revenge Porn.
Upon joining Strictly, she said, “I’m so excited to join the world of Strictly!”
“I grew up with my grandma and watched the movie every year and she was the biggest Strictly fan.”
“We danced around the house and I have such fond memories of that time in my life.”
Adam Thomas
Soap star: Adam Thomas is best known for his role as Adam Barton on the ITV soap opera Emmerdale
Adam Thomas is the eighth celebrity contestant confirmed to star in the all-new series Strictly Come Dancing.
Adam is best known for his role as Adam Barton on the ITV soap opera Emmerdale.
Alongside Emmerdale, Adam is also known for reprising his role as Donte Charles on the BBC One series Waterloo Road, having previously been a member of the original cast on the original series.
He appeared in the ITV series I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here in 2016 and went on to co-host the spin-off I’m a Celebrity: Extra Camp.
Adam’s brothers are also known for their appearances on reality shows. His twin brother Scott was a 2016 Love Island finalist, while his older brother Ryan won the final season of Celebrity Big Brother.
Adam has been married to his wife Caroline since 2017 and the couple have two children together – a son named Teddy and a daughter named Elsie-Rose.
Adam said of that Strictly stint, “I can’t dance to save my life, but I’m dying to learn and have fun with my pro.” Get me on the dance floor…can’t wait !’
Nikita Kanda
Radio Star: Nikita Kanda is best known for being the current presenter of the BBC Asian Network’s ‘Breakfast’ programme
Nikita is best known for being the current presenter of the BBC Asian Network’s breakfast show, having previously hosted the Saturday afternoon show.
She has interviewed everyone from Killing Eve star Sandra Oh, Bridgerton actors Kate Sharma and Charithra Chandran to Marvel actress Awkwafina and global pop star Nick Jonas.
Recently nominated for Female Presenter of the Year at the Asian Media Awards, Nikita has also been a regular reporter on BBC One’s The One Show.
Nikita said, “I can’t believe I’ll be on Strictly.” It’s a dream come true. I’m still pinching. I don’t think it will really take hold until I hit the dance floor. I can’t wait to get dressed up and go outside. Throw the glitter at me!’
The news was announced at the BBC Asian Network Breakfast with Nikita Kanda on Tuesday morning.
Ellie Leach
Soap favourite: Corrie star Ellie Leach is the tenth confirmed contestant after quitting the ITV soap earlier this year
Ellie, 22, is best known for portraying Faye Windass for 12 years on Coronation Street, who was nominated for multiple British Soap Awards and Inside Soap Awards for her role.
The exciting news was confirmed at BBC Breakfast on Wednesday, when Ellie told the show she was “so excited” to be a part of it.
Adding that she was relieved that the news had finally reached her family, she gushed, “My dad rarely shows his feelings, but he said, ‘The hairs on the back of my neck stand up, I’m so proud to you of you.” ‘
The timing is perfect for the young actress, who only quit her role on Coronation Street a few months ago, and she admitted it’s been an “emotional” time.
Jody Cundy
Sports Star: Jody Cundy is an accomplished World Champion and Paralympic Champion and should have the competitive spirit to match
Jody is a distinguished World Champion and Paralympic Champion. He has represented Great Britain at seven Summer Paralympics, winning eight gold, one silver and three bronze medals in swimming and cycling events.
Jody is now one of the British team’s biggest success stories at the Paralympics. The athlete was born with a deformed foot that was amputated when he was three years old.
He also competed in several world championships and won 23 world titles. The most recent victory came this week at the World Cycling Championships in Glasgow.
After participating in Tokyo 2021, Jody became the first man in the history of the Paralympics in Great Britain to win medals in seven different games.
In 2009 he was awarded an MBE for services to disabled sports, in 2017 this was upgraded to an OBE for services in swimming and cycling and in 2022 he received a CBE for services in cycling.
Jody said he was “excited to be welcomed into the Strictly family and throwing myself headlong into the world of ballroom dancing.”
“So far from what I’m used to, but I look forward to the challenge and to pushing myself out of my comfort zone, especially because I’m always the last one on the dance floor.” I can’t wait to get started and Bring glitter and sequins!’
Bobby Brazier
EastEnders favourite: Bobby Brazier is a 20-year-old model and actor and is set to follow in his parents’ footsteps on the reality show
Bobby Brazier is a 20-year-old model and actor best known for his role as Freddie Slater on British soap opera EastEnders.
The son of the late ‘Big Brother’ star Jade Goody also walked the runway for world-renowned fashion house Dolce & Gabbana during Milan Fashion Week.
Appearing live from the EastEnders to unveil the news on BBC Breakfast on Wednesday, Bobby said that while he was nervous about performing live, he was excited to “feel a rush I’ve never felt before”.
When asked about his dancing experience so far, this year’s youngest contestant admitted, “I just like parties,” adding that he loves “house and disco music.”
New recruit! Actor Nigel Harman is best known for his role as Dennis Rickman on EastEnders, which he played from 2003 to 2005
Nigel Harman
49-year-old actor Nigel is best known for his role as Dennis Rickman on EastEnders, which he played from 2003-2005.
More recently he has starred in Casualty and has appeared in Downton Abbey and Hotel Babylon in addition to extensive theatrical work.
Nigel has appeared in ‘Guys and Dolls in London’s West End’ and ‘Shrek the Musical’, which he later directed the UK tour. His film work includes roles in Blood Diamond, Telstar and The Outsiders for ITV.
Nigel said, “I’m amazed, excited and terrified to be doing Strictly.” As an armchair fan of the show, I’ve watched in awe as people spun and spun across the screen. And now it’s my turn…gulp!’
The big news was revealed by Christine Lampard on ITV show Lorraine, with the actor admitting: “As the days have gone by, up until this moment, I’ve been wondering what have I been doing?” I’m happy to be out now and am proud.”
“I just got on a roller coaster. “I think over time I’ll realize that I believe I’m a better dancer than my body is telling me.”
Tennis legend: Annabel Croft is the fourteenth celebrity contestant confirmed for Strictly’s all-new series. She said, “I can’t quite believe I’m going to be a part of this magical show.”
Annabel Croft
Annabel is a former British number one tennis player who at 15 became the youngest British player to compete at Wimbledon in 95 years.
She has also represented Great Britain in prestigious Wightman and Federation Cup competitions and plays an important role in Wimbledon coverage every year and has done so for many years.
Outside of tennis, Annabel has hosted entertainment shows such as Treasure Hunt and Inceptor and has had a long career as a presenter, covering every major tennis event around the world.
Her television and radio career has included presenting, commentating and working as a highly regarded expert for all major broadcasters including BBC, Sky, Amazon Prime, ITV and Discovery.
Annabel said: “I’ve always loved watching Strictly and I can’t believe I’ll be part of this magical show – trading tennis balls for glitter balls and looking forward to finding some joy in the process.”
The news was announced on Virgin Radio’s Breakfast Show with Ricky Wilson.
Annabel told Ricky, “I’m beyond excited.” “I’ve always loved this magical, magical show.” She added, “At the same time, I’m also a little scared!”
Who are the pros at Strictly Come Dancing 2023?
Regular viewers will recognize most of the pros from this year’s Strictly Come Dancing series, as they’ve all appeared on a previous series.
They include some of the most talented professional Latin and ballroom dancers from around the world and are:
- Diana Buswell
- Nadia Bychkova
- Graziano Di Prima
- Amy Dowden
- Karen Hauer
- Katya Jones
- Neil Jones
- Nikita Kuzmin
- Gorka Marquez
- Luba Mushtuk
- Giovanni Pernice
- Jowita Przystal
- John Radebe
- Kai Widrington
- Nancy Xu
- Carlos Gu
- Lauren Oakley
- Michelle Tsiakkas
- Vito Coppola
Consistency: Judges (LR) Anton Du Beke, Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood all return for 2023
Who are the judges of Strictly Come Dancing 2023?
The jury is also unchanged compared to last year.
Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and Shirley Ballas, who will return as head judges, will therefore sit at the podium.
One change we’re making this year is that Fleur East will be co-presenting It Takes Two as Janette Manrara’s new sidekick.
STRICTLY COME DANCING 2023: WHO ARE THE PARTICIPANTS?
Angela Rippon
Age: 78
Occupation: journalist
Angela says: “I’ve been a fan of Strictly since day one and as a former Come Dancing host this is going to be quite an adventure for me.” But I’m looking forward to the challenge and maybe learning to dance Argentine tango.”
Amanda Abbington
Age: 49
Profession: actress
Amanda says, “I’m thrilled to have been asked to do Strictly. I’m actually very shy and self-confident, so this is a great opportunity for me to overcome those things.”
Layton Williams
Age: 28
Profession: actor
Layton says: “I am absolutely delighted to confirm that I will be taking part in the most famous dance competition in the UK!” It’s time to take it to the ballroom. I really enjoy learning new skills from the best. Bring on the sequins… ALL the sequins!’
Krishnan Guru-Murphy
Age: 53
Occupation: journalist
Krishnan says, “I’m surprised, delighted and slightly confused to be participating in Strictly’s ‘You only live once!’ “I can’t wait to start learning to dance, but I’m a little worried about my general weakness.”
Eddie Kadie
Age: 40
Profession: comedian and radio presenter
Eddie says, “WOW. Anyone who knows me understands that music and dance are so important and central to me. I am so incredibly proud and honored that Strictly and the BBC have asked me to join the 2023 team. I promise you I’ll give everything I have. This will be a VIBE.
Angela Scanlon
Age: 39
Profession: TV presenter
Angela says, ‘I’m not very fit, I have no idea how my pelvic floor will react to this dancing.’ I’ve never done any other dances except drunk jiving at a wedding!’
Zara McDermott
Age: 26
Profession: Documentary filmmaker and former Love Island star
Zara says “I’m so excited to join the world of Strictly!” I grew up with my grandma and watched the movie every year and she was the biggest Strictly fan. We danced around the house and I have such fond memories of that time in my life.”
Adam Thomas
Age: 34
Profession: actor and presenter
Adam says, “I can’t dance to save my life, but I’m dying to learn and have a lot of laughs with my pro.” Get me on the dance floor…I can’t wait!’
Nikita Kanda
Age: 27
Profession: radio and television presenter
Nikita says, “I can’t believe I’ll be on Strictly.” It’s a dream come true. I’m still pinching. I don’t think it will really take hold until I hit the dance floor. I can’t wait to get dressed up and go outside. Throw the glitter at me!’
Ellie Leach
Age: 22
Profession: Star of Coronation Street
Ellie says, “It still doesn’t feel real that I’m going to do Strictly!!” It’s always been a dream of mine so I think dreams really do come true!!!!”
Jody Cundy
Age: 44
Profession: Paralympic Champion
Jody says, “I look forward to the challenge and to pushing myself way out of my comfort zone, especially as I’m always the last one on the dance floor. I can’t wait to get started and bring the glitter and sequins with me.”
Bobby Brazier
Age: 20
Profession: EastEnders star and model
Bobby says, “I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly line-up, I can’t wait to start training like a professional dancer and add a few moves to my repertoire.” ready to perform in front of everyone.”
Nigel Harman
Age: 49
Profession: actor
Nigel says, “I’m amazed, excited and scared to do Strictly.” As an armchair fan of the show, I watched in awe as people spun and spun across the screen. And now it’s my turn…gulp!’
Annabel Croft
Age: 57
Profession: broadcaster and former tennis player
Says Annabel: “I’ve always loved watching Strictly and I can’t believe I’ll be part of this magical show – I’ll swap tennis balls for glitter balls and look forward to finding some joy in the process.”